99 Johnson 175 Fuel Pump

[99Ranger]

I recently purchased a 99 Ranger with a 99 175 Johnson (model# J175PLEES). I have found that the previous owner installed an electric fuel pump (Purolator Universal) between the water seperator and the engine. The engine performed great during the test run but I have since found out that adding an electric fuel pump in this manner is a serious safety issue. I have removed the electric fuel pump and I have installed a new line from the water seperator to the engine (with a bulb). Now, when I pump the bulb I cannot build any pressure at all and I can hear what sounds like air escaping in the engine.

I'm guessing that the previous owner was too cheap to have a new fuel pump installed and went with the electric pump instead. I would like to know if the above information all points to replacing the fuel pump or if there could be any other problems. I'm trying to decide if I should buy a new fuel pump and replace it myself or just take it in to a
service dept and have someone else do it.

Also, the oil reservoir has been taken off, I premix the oil and gas in the tank.

Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.